South bound on the ICW

[tuco]

I''m considering bringing my boat from MD to TX. Can any one share some links or where to find info on the matter. How long it may take, how much money to put aside. I''v never done this and would like to read up on the ICW.

[mrb2222]

Here are some links to get you started:

http://members.aol.com/americacruising/aiww-south.html

http://members.aol.com/americacruising/giww-west.html

http://www.toad.net/~tdove/icw.html

http://www.icw-net.com/

I just finished about 400 miles from Southport, NC to the Rappahannock river on the Chesapeake. Great trip.

Some general observations:
Carry a current ICW chart book.
Make sure your engine is in good shape.
Make sure your depth sounder works.
If your draft is over 6'' it will be tough and tedious.
Expect to touch bottom more than once.
Join TowBoatUS in case you go hard aground or need help.
I carried my mast on deck. I only had to deal with two bridges. This for me is the only way to go.

As far as cost, the major points are:
Marina fees
Fuel
Food
Unexpected repairs/towing
Shopping
Boat Preparations

If you''d like more details email me at mrb2222@yahoo.com

Mike

[tuco]

thanks for the info Mike, This is going to help.

[Koene]

Two and a half years ago, we took our seven foot draft steel boat down the ICW all the way to Ft. Lauderdale, FL without a problem. This spring, we came back north and found it even better. Do you know how we didn''t ground? We were always paying attention, making sure that we were within the buoys and looking behind us to make sure strong currents did not push us out of the channel.

The only tricky parts were the sounds in Georgia if the winds were kicking up. Especially if wind is against the tide it can be a bit rough. Otherwise, it is a nice trip with a lot of places to stop and see.

Lastly, we anchored the entire way to Florida and the entire way back north, never staying in a marina. We used Skipper Bobs guide to anchoring in the ICW. It is available at most boat stores in the book area. Have a great time going south and don''t forget to stop and smell the roses. Cindy

[tuco]

sounds great! I can wait, as far as wether goes, is July a bad time to come down?

[Koene]

Well, July is a hurricane month. Although, the number of hurricanes are usually low. Just listen to the weather. They usually know if they are coming at least a few days in advance. September and October have higher rates of hurricanes. Cindy